Hello Reader,

ALL ABOARD for this week's newsletter: VIA Sale, New Equipment for Amtrak, I help a YouTuber and more.

Amtrak's December on-time performance numbers are out

Yesterday, I updated Amtrak's on-time performance page for Amtrak's long-distance trains.

I revised the numbers and the page content. Moreover, you can now check whether the performance of a long-distance train has improved.

VIA Sale

VIA Rail, the national passenger railroad of Canada, offers a Winter Sale with discounts of up to 25% on select routes and dates. To take advantage of these offers, use the discount code VIA2025 when booking.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit VIA Rail’s Winter Sale page.

A timeline for new Amtrak equipment!

I found this fantastic video discussing what’s in store for Amtrak and VIA Rail in the upcoming years. @CoasterFan2105 covers locomotives, coach cars, sleeping cars, and more.

If you enjoy watching trains, this is a must-see YouTube channel.

​

Travels with Kev helps a YouTuber!

For a long time, I've admired YouTuber Jacob the Carpetbagger, whose videos introduced me to Buc-ee's and ignited my passion for roadside attractions.

Recently, during a live stream, Jacob mentioned wanting to try train travel, so I emailed him—and he replied! Since then, he’s given Travels with Kev a shoutout on a few vlogs, which has been a thrill and brought new people to my work.

Check out his adventures on the California Zephyr: Day One, Day Two, Day Three.

What has Kev been up to?

This week, I swapped sunny but chilly Florida for the frozen lands of the Midwest. After flying into Chicago, I kicked off my 2025 travel year with my first train ride—yay! It was on the Hiawatha! It technically was the CTA Orange Line, but I don't count that.

Earlier this week, we stopped by Buc-ee’s for some fun. If you’ve checked out Jacob’s videos, you might’ve noticed him wearing a Buc-ee’s shirt—and I’ve got a few of my own! Buc-ee’s is more than just a gas station and convenience store for those unfamiliar. It’s a whole experience!

We usually visit the one in Loxley, Alabama, about an hour and ten minutes from my sister’s house. It’s the perfect distance—far enough for a bit of adventure but not too far to be a hassle.

We love walking around to see what’s new and checking out all the unique gifts and trinkets.

I’ve picked up a new shirt and some Buc-ees Nuggets.

​Petron members get more of the story and photos.

Looking at the markers

I want to note that Amtrak had a sale, but I did not know about it in time to get that information to you, and it ended before this one came out. The Rail Pass sale ends on January 17, 2025.

Your help ensures this content stays on track by allowing me to get new gear, software, and experiences that I can use to report back and share with you.

If interested, click the green button below, join Patreon, or visit my support page to help. If you have a different way, reach out!

Thanks so much for being here and part of this incredible journey with me!

Happy planning and safe travels!

Kev Monteith